2H Private Cruise on Lake Como Tender yacht Invictus 9 pax

If you’re considering a 2-hour private cruise on Lake Como, you’re in for a treat. This experience, offered by The Black Pearl, promises a personalized journey through one of Italy’s most iconic lakes, with a focus on comfort, scenery, and insider stories. While I haven’t done this exact cruise myself, plenty of travelers have, and the reviews keep the experience firmly in the positive realm.

What we love about this tour is the intimate setting—only your group on a sleek, elegant boat—and the insightful, friendly guidance from Luca, a captain with a passion for the lake and its history. The route is thoughtfully curated, with stops at legendary villas and charming villages, making it clear this trip is about experiencing the best of Lake Como without the crowds.

Of course, there are some things to keep in mind. The tour costs just over $1,180 for up to 9 people, which is a fair price for a private experience, but it’s worth considering how you value personalized boat time versus more budget-friendly options. This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a knowledgeable guide, and who appreciate being on the water in a very comfortable boat.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Only your group on a stylish tender yacht
• Expert guide: Luca’s local knowledge and multilingual charm enhance the trip
• Unbeatable views: See villas, villages, and landmarks from the water
• Flexible itinerary: Stops include Villa Erba, Villa Oleandra, Isola Comacina, and more
• Good value for a private tour: Cost reflects exclusivity and comfort
• Booking in advance: Usually booked around 44 days ahead, so plan early

The Appeal of a Private Lake Como Cruise

When it comes to exploring Lake Como, many visitors settle for crowded boat tours or guided group outings. But a private cruise like this offers a different vibe—more relaxed, more tailored, and often more memorable. It’s less about ticking off landmarks and more about soaking in the scenery at your own pace.

The boat itself, the Pegaso 22, is a perfect match for a luxurious yet intimate outing. Its 7 meters of elegance combined with a powerful, quiet 260 Hp engine means you’ll glide smoothly past the lakeside highlights. The boat features a sun deck where you can lounge, take photos, or just enjoy the breeze. Luca, the captain, is described by travelers as passionate and capable, with the ability to entertain in Italian, English, and French—adding a friendly, approachable layer to the experience.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

Start at Como

Your journey begins at the pier in Como, specifically the Lario bar, where Luca will be waiting. From here, the adventure kicks off with a gentle departure, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the lake views. Since this is a private tour, the start time and pace are flexible, making it easy to match your mood and schedule.

Cernobbio and Villa Erba

Cruising past Tavernola and into Cernobbio, you’ll get a chance to admire Villa Erba, a landmark that’s hosted many high-profile events over the years—including the 2019 mentions by the Obamas and George Clooney at Villa d’Este. The boat’s perspective offers a unique view of these grand villas and hotels that line the lakeshore, many of which have their own stories.

Laglio and Villa Oleandra

A highlight for many visitors is Laglio, home of George Clooney’s Villa Oleandra. From the water, you’ll see the villa’s grounds and often catch a glimpse of the celebrity’s retreat. It’s a fun little encounter with modern star power amid historic surroundings.

Isola Comacina and Surroundings

The journey continues to Isola Comacina, the only island on Lake Como. Passing charming villages like Brienno and Argegno, you’ll catch sight of places famous for their culinary and historical significance. The cave once used by smugglers adds a hint of intrigue to this stretch.

Orrido di Nesso and Roman Bridge

Next, a stop at Orrido di Nesso — a rugged gorge with a dramatic waterfall—offers a scenic view that’s perfect for photos and quick exploration. Nearby is the Roman bridge, a reminder of the lake’s ancient past.

Tornos and Villa Pliniana

Torno is home to Villa Pliniana, surrounded by legends of ghosts and history. The villa’s storied past adds an element of mystique to the lakeside scenery. Passing the Grand Hotel “Il Sereno,” which was recently renovated, you get a glimpse of the luxury accommodations that cater to discerning travelers.

Blevio and Final Return

As your cruise winds down, Luca guides you by Mandarin Oriental and Villa Troubetzkoy, with a final scenic pass back to Como. The return journey offers a chance to relax, take photos, and enjoy the lake views one last time.

End at Como

Back at the pier, you’ll disembark after around two hours—enough time to feel like you’ve truly experienced Lake Como from the water, but without the exhaustion of longer tours.

What Travelers Say

Based on reviews, the guides and captains genuinely make the experience. One reviewer appreciated how “the Captain was passionate about his job and Lake Como, making it very interesting,” highlighting the personal touch that can turn a nice boat ride into a memorable outing.

Another noted that while the boat is spacious enough for 9 people, it’s more like 6 or 7 comfortably, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with a larger group. The same traveler also mentioned that they weren’t offered prosecco, but this has been addressed by the provider, so you can request it.

A common theme among the rave reviews is how knowledgeable and friendly Luca is—he’s described as outgoing, with excellent language skills, able to entertain and share stories in Italian, English, and French.

Some feedback pointed out a rough start due to miscommunications in port, with one guest noting an initial awkwardness when boarding. Yet, once on board, the experience was largely praised as “beautiful and so much fun,” with guides being described as “exceptional, very funny, knowledgeable, and easy to work with.”

Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a private, relaxed exploration of Lake Como, without the hustle of larger group tours. It’s perfect for small groups who want to enjoy the scenery in comfort and appreciate personalized service. If you love learning about the villas and villages from someone who’s passionate about the lake’s stories, you’ll likely find this experience very rewarding.

While not specifically tailored for families with young kids, those traveling with older children or teens who enjoy scenic boat rides and scenic sightseeing will probably enjoy it too. The flexibility of the itinerary means you can customize your experience, too.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is booked on average 44 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan ahead, especially during peak season. The price for the whole boat, roughly $1,185, is a significant investment but reflects the private nature, quality, and expert guidance. If you’re traveling with a group of up to nine people, it’s a good deal for a personalized experience.

The tour includes a mobile ticket, and the meeting point is central in Como at Lungo Lario Trieste. Pickup and drop-off options outside the standard meeting point are available, so you can make arrangements that suit your travel plans.

Weather is a factor—if poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so it’s flexible if your plans change.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The cruise runs for approximately 2 hours, which is enough time to see key sights without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Since this is a private experience, the fee covers the boat, the guide/captain, and the route. Entrance tickets to villas or attractions are free, but private venues like Villa le Fontanelle or Villa d’Este are outside the tour scope.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the route is predefined, the private nature of the tour means you may be able to discuss specific stops or sights to focus on with Luca.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the Pegaso 22 is equipped with a sun deck and offers a smooth, silent ride thanks to its engine. It’s designed for comfort and elegance.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but very young children should be considered carefully, as the focus is on scenic viewing and relaxation.

What languages does the guide speak?
Luca is capable of entertaining and guiding in Italian, English, and French.

How should I dress?
Dress casually for comfort; bring a hat or sunglasses for sunny days and a light jacket if it’s cooler.

Is this experience suitable for large groups?
No, the tour is designed for up to 9 guests, making it ideal for small parties wanting a private, intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

A private cruise on Lake Como like this delivers an elegant, relaxed way to experience the region’s stunning scenery and iconic villas. The knowledgeable guide, Luca, enhances the journey with stories and local insights, making the experience more than just a boat ride. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a personalized, comfortable way to enjoy Lake Como in a small group, with the flexibility to customize your itinerary.

While the price may seem steep, the exclusivity and quality of the experience justify it—especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to soak in the beauty without distractions. Just remember to book early, prepare for the weather, and communicate your preferences to ensure you get the most out of your trip.

For anyone who values scenic tranquility, expert guidance, and a touch of luxury, this private cruise could be one of the highlights of your Lake Como visit.